Shuffleboard Table Plans

How to Build a Shuffleboard Table

If you’re interested in trying to build a shuffleboard table, here is my account of making a shuffleboard with no prior woodworking experience. I had no tools, materials or construction knowledge going in, so the mistakes came early and often. But overall the shuffleboard table turned out great and I learned a lot along the way. I am currently in the process of creating this site to help others who are tackling this project. It may take me a couple of weeks to get all of the content up, the pictures loaded and the links working. Thanks for your patience.

Background

For a couple years I’ve wanted to get a shuffleboard and after buying a house, I finally had the room. I searched around online and was disappointed to find out that 22 foot shuffleboards were priced around $5k. After seeing some 9, 12 and 14 foot boards locally, I just didn’t feel like the playing surface was long enough. I also didn’t want to drop some serious money on something that could never be taken apart and moved if I ever have to relocate for my job.

After looking for used tables on ebay, I came across DIY shuffleboard plans… but they were over $20 with shipping and came with a disclaimer that required:

“Level 4 or level 5 woodworking abilities and a number of quality tools to insure success.”

I’m about a level 0 woodworker, so those plans weren’t for me. Fortunately, I did a couple of searches online and found some DIY examples:

After looking through Dave’s and Gary’s websites, it seemed like something doable for a beginner. I literally have no experience woodworking. The last time I took a construction class was in 7th grade and the only thing I’ve constructed since then was a tent. My collection of power tools was limited to a drill and a hammer, so any project would be an investment and a learning experience. I was enthusiastic that it would turn out well, but gave it a 50/50 chance of success.

Timing / Costs

Overall the project took me 3 weeks (weekends and a couple nights during the week). This is a lot longer than it should’ve taken because of all the mistakes I made. I think it should’ve taken two solid weekends. If you decide to give it a shot, I hope this site helps you avoid some of the missteps and wasted time that I experienced.

As far as costs go, I’ve added up the actual costs I incurred and also the required costs (not spending money on things that weren’t necessary). I’ve also looked at project-specific materials and general purpose items (ex. Tools) that could be used for more than just this project. Overall costs:

Project-specific materials (required): $495

All materials & tools (required): $837

Honestly, I tried to be as realistic and budget conscious as possible when adding up these totals. It was more expensive than I’d hoped but I came out with a great table, a good start to my tool bench and some experience. For full details on costs and materials, check out the Materials Page.

Starting the Project

So, I began with the playing court itself because I figured the success or failure of the project really depends on a level and smooth playing surface for the shuffleboard pucks
to travel across. After a quick sketch of the dimensions in Excel, I was ready to start.

Overhead Dimensions

Other major components (box to hold playing surface, legs, scoring) could be planned out later if the court was well executed.